Situated just 10 minutes from the centre of Levin and in close proximity to the Tararua Ranges this is a popular picnicing and swimming spot during summer. Visitors can also access bush walks that will take you to the Waiopehu huts or link to the Te Araroa walkway. The reserve is just 1.6km up Gladstone Road which is just off Tararua Road behind Levin. For full directions please click here. Is it safe for swimming? Water quality at Gladstone Reserve is generally safe for swimming, except during and after recent rainfall and river freshes. Rain washes bacteria and sediment off streets, roads, plants and land into water which increase health-risk and makes it look murky. It is best to wait for a day or two for the water to clear before swimming. What is Horizons doing to improve the River? Rivers have a range of things that need to be balanced to keep the water clean so its fish and plant life can survive and we can enjoy these special spots. Horizons works to improve water quality by: • Helping to fence off rivers and streams so stock do not get into water and contaminate it • Helping rural land users to stop soil eroding from hills and into water • Ensuring waste that has to go into water is properly treated to meet water quality standards • Monitoring water that is taken out of the river so there is enough for everyone, including the fish Our River's future While you can enjoy the Ohau River this summer, work needs to be done to make sure future generations will be able to swim in it too. Horizons will do this by continuing to support work that reduces the sources of sediment and bacteria getting into the river.